In recent years, the policing landscape has undergone a seismic shift. Technological advances and increased scrutiny have placed law enforcement under an unprecedented microscope. Claims of police misconduct and violence directed at officers have created a rift between police departments and the communities they serve. In response, departments across the United States are reimagining their approach to policing, embracing a community-driven model that harnesses the power of relationship-building to reduce crime and recidivism.
The Shift to Community Policing
Melissa Morgan of Stanford University’s Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies notes,
One popular method of police reform is community policing, defined generally as law enforcement systems where officers build and maintain active, reinforcing relationships with local stakeholders, including citizens and community leaders.1
This approach is gaining traction in the United States , with promising results. According to a 1995 study by the National Institute of Justice, among agencies that had implemented community policing for at least one year, 99 percent reported improved cooperation between citizens and police, 80 percent reported reduced citizens’ fear of crime, and 62 percent reported fewer crimes against persons. These statistics underscore the potential of community-oriented approaches in transforming community-police relations.
Custom Badges: Forging Bonds
One innovative strategy in this new era of policing is the use of custom badges that incorporate elements unique to specific communities. This approach helps forge stronger bonds between officers and residents, fostering a sense of mutual respect and shared purpose. Ronald L. Davis, director of the Office of Community Oriented Policing Service explains,
A key component of successful policing is building collaborative, trusting relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Developing these relationships allows law enforcement to more successfully address the challenges of crime control and terrorism prevention.3
Jason Piccolo, retired special agent and professor at Saint Joseph’s University, adds,
The importance of community for first responders & law enforcement officers cannot be overstated. It’s a lifeline that offers refuge in times of need, a beacon of light during the darkest of days.4
Case Studies: Badges in Action
Bakersfield, California: A Dream Fulfilled
In May 2024, the Bakersfield Police Department collaborated with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to fulfill the dream of a terminally ill 5-year-old boy named Dylan. Journalist Joshua Eyraud recounts, “Dylan was fitted with his own BPD uniform and served as chief for the day alongside Chief Greg Terry.” 5 Dylan was also presented with a custom police badge crafted by Entenmann-Rovin Co., a premier badge manufacturer that has been crafting customized badges since 1888. While Dylan was only chief for a day, the impact that something like this has on the community is priceless.
Sea Girt, New Jersey: A Coastal Connection
The Sea Girt Police Department in New Jersey introduced a new badge design highlighting the Sea Girt Lighthouse, a coastal sentinel since 1896. The badge, featuring a detailed engraving of the lighthouse that has been standing for over 100 years, symbolizes the department’s commitment to vigilance and community service. Chief Justin Macko explains,
Since assuming the role of Chief of Police in 2021, one of my key objectives was to reimagine and revitalize our department’s badge, insignias, and patch. Sea Girt is privileged to be home to the Sea Girt Lighthouse, a historic and iconic structure among the eleven lighthouses in New Jersey. Previously, our badge featured a standard eagle-topped shield, a design commonly seen among various agencies in our region. We sought to create a badge that was not only distinctive and modern but also resonated with the essence of the community we serve.6
Chief Macko’s decision to create a unique badge, distinct from the standard designs used by other agencies in the area, has fostered a sense of exclusivity and community pride among its nearly 1,900 residents. Chief Macko goes on to explain,
“Our newly designed badge reflects the deep connection between our department and the community. It integrates the Borough’s cherished historical landmark into a contemporary shield, symbolizing both tradition and modernization. The feedback from residents has been overwhelmingly positive, our new badge has sparked conversations and strengthened community pride.”
Carbondale, Illinois: Honoring History
Carbondale Police chose to use custom badges to recognize the history of their community. Chief and Interim City Manager Stan Reno explains,
Our motivation to introduce custom badges was engrained in the desire to celebrate and honor Carbondale’s rich history as we approached our city’s 150th anniversary. The sesquicentennial badge is more than just a symbol; it represents our department’s enduring commitment to service, while also connecting us to the legacy of those who came before. By involving our officers in the design process, we created a badge that not only honors our past but also embodies the values of integrity, dedication, and unity that we carry forward into the future.7
The Impact on Officer-Community Relations
The introduction of custom badges has had a measurable impact on both officer morale and community perception. Author Gary Brower explains,
Community policing efforts also benefit from custom badges. When officers are seen as identifiable and approachable members of the community, it encourages positive interactions and fosters a collaborative environment between law enforcement and citizens.8
Carbondale’s Chief Reno notes,
The custom badges have become a symbol of pride, not just for the department but for the entire community. They have strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the public, reminding everyone of the shared history and values that make Carbondale a united and resilient city
Conclusion: A Symbol of Shared Purpose
As departments across the United States continue to embrace community policing, custom badges serve as powerful symbols of this new approach. They represent more than just authority; they embody the shared history, values, and aspirations of officers and the communities they serve. Looking forward, the trend of custom badges is likely to grow, with more departments recognizing these badges’ potential to foster trust and cooperation. As the era of more transparent and community-oriented policing continues , these emblems of unity will continue to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the police and the public they serve.
Notes:
1Melissa Morgan, “Community Policing: A Better Way to Improve Policing or a Bust?” FSI News, November 30, 2021.
2Jeremy Travis, “Community Policing Strategies,” Research Preview (National Institute of Justice, 1995).
3Ronald L. Davis, Building Relationships of Trust: Recommended Steps for Chief Executives (Community Oriented Policing Services, 2014).
4Jason Piccolo, “Finding Strength Beyond the Badge: The Importance of Community for First Responders and Law Enforcement,” LinkedIn, February 19, 2024.
5Joshua Eyraud, “Make-A-Wish and Bakersfield Police Turn Boy’s Dream To Reality,” KGET.com, May 16, 2024.
6Justin Macko (chief, Sea Girt Police Department), “Sea Girt: IACP 25 Article Interview Questions,” interview, September 3, 2024.
7Stan Reno (chief, Carbondale Police), “Carbondale Police: IACP 25 Article Interview Questions,” interview, September 3, 2024.
8Gary Brower, “Enhancing Identity And Unity: The Role Of Custom Badges In Law Enforcement,” Medium, July 26, 2024.
